Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Medal, Silver Medal, By Rothe, C.1917 Hold which at the time (1938)

which at the time (1938) was threatened to be invaded and occupied by Nazi Germany

silver gilt and eanmels

gold wash on pebbled outer field

with a slotted white velvet medal bed

but with sufficient finish remaining to positively identify this as a silver grade Infantry Assault badge

Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Medal, Silver Medal, By Rothe, C.1917 Hold which at the time (1938)(Signum Laudis). Instituted March 12, 1890. Franz Joseph (1890 1917). A silver medal, the obverse presenting the right facing bust of Franz Joseph, the reverse inscribed SIGNVM LAVDIS surrounded by a laurel and oak leaf wreath, the medal is surmounted by a crown, measures 31. 5mm (w) x 52mm (h inclusive of cross adorned integral ring on crown), weighs 23. 9 grams (including ribbon), worn on original ribbon, edge knocks visible, lovely patina, very